30/05/2025
FEATURES | A step closer to Patnanungan: A Local’s Guide to the Island of a Thousand Treasures
By: Raissa Claire A. Ollet
Imagine a crystal-clear shore with powdery white sand, a breathtaking scene that feels like it belongs in a dream. But who knew that this dreamlike destination could be just a few miles away, an astonishing creation that truly exists in real life? A captivating creation located in the mid-eastern part of the Polillo Group, Patnanungan Island is truly the undiscovered treasure of Quezon Province.
Earl Barrera, a former student of Quezon National High School, says that Patnanungan, Quezon, has always been his retreat to relax and escape the bustling city life. It's a place where he truly experiences the comforting essence of home.
Earl’s grandparents live in Patnanungan, particularly in Patnanungan Norte, along with most of his cousins. His most recent visit to the island was in January, just before summer, a perfect season to explore the beauty of Patnanungan. With his experience, he becomes TC/AN’s personal tour guide into paradise:
One step closer to Paradise
Earl, who currently lives in Lucena, reached this hidden paradise by first riding a van to Punduhang Soni/Ungos Port. It took him three hours before arriving at the port, where he boarded a cargo boat directly to Patnanungan Island, bringing him one step closer to his destination. On his way, he was greeted by Patnanungan’s crystal-blue, sparkling waters and vibrant skies. He caught sight of tall coconut trees and breathtaking rock formations along the shore. What a way to be greeted after a long ride! As he stepped onto the island, the warm smiles of locals and the cool ocean breeze welcomed him.
“The people there are great! They’ll treat you with respect and will welcome you with open arms.” Earl stated. The glimpse of Patnanungan’s beauty filled him with comfort, along with excitement as he was about to meet his grandparents and cousins.
Unlike other islands with hotels and stalls, Patnanungan remains unique for its natural, hidden-treasure vibe. Staying there wasn’t a problem for Earl since some of his family live there, but for first-time visitors planning to stay on the island, pitching a tent at Leria Beach would be a unique way to fully enjoy the calm and relaxing beach getaway everyone dreams of.
Fun and Adventurous Activities & Boodle-Worthy Foods
Earl usually spends his time in Patnanungan bonding with his family, enjoying every moment together, and occasionally visiting beaches around the island. He enjoys looking at the beautiful scenery of Minasawa Island, as well as the beautiful view of Pacabalo Sandbar. Who knew that this kind of paradise exists in Quezon? But what’s a beautiful scenery without some fun activities to go along with it?
According to Patnanungan tourism, Patnanungan offers plenty of exciting activities for adventure seekers, such as island hopping, snorkeling, swimming, and jet-skiing, all at an affordable price. Visitors can also explore the entire island to discover its hidden gems for a more thrilling experience.
However, Earl also reminded that one must be cautious of jellyfish, locally known as dikya, which can sometimes be found in the waters, as it can sting once it latches its tentacles on your skin.
When it comes to food, Patnanungan has some of the best offerings. Earl finds satisfaction in the island’s freshest seafood, like fish, shrimps, and even lobsters.
“You’ll see a bunch of different types of seafood such as lobsters, shrimps and of course fish which you’ll be able to enjoy if you were in the sea.” Earl uttered. For him, there’s no better way to enjoy a meal than indulging in a delicious seafood dish prepared with the day’s catch by the sea.
The Hidden Treasures within Patnanungan
The crystal-clear shore is not the only treasure Patnanungan has to offer. This gem also hides several mini waterfalls perfect for a refreshing swim. Discovering these hidden falls adds an exciting twist to one’s experience on the island, with Balagbag Falls being one of the highlights, it’s a perfect reward after a tiring boat ride.
For Earl, Patnanungan is more than just an island. It is a truly magical experience— from its shores and scenery to its activities, food, locals, waterfalls, and more. It’s a retreat, a serene escape, where peace and calm await. As the sun sets at the island, Earl knows that his adventure is about to end, but just like how the sun would always rise again, he knows that someday, he’ll be able to return to the place that he’d forever call home.
